Computer Memory Upgrade

New programs and games have higher system requirements these
days and more often than not require more and more RAM. Before
you can consider a computer memory upgrade you will have to
find out a couple of details.

You need to know the RAM type (DDR, DDR2 or DDR3) and you
need to know the Speed. Many computers can use a few different
speeds but all the memory modules in your PC will run at the
speed of the slowest module installed. If you are not replacing all
the memory, you may want to buy the same speed that's in your
computer right now. This can save you some money.

1. Unplug the power and all other cables from your computer

2. Remove the screws from the back of the left-hand side panel.

3. Lay it on its side and remove the side-panel or open the case to expose the
motherboard.

4. Locate the memory sockets.
* There are plastic tabs that lock the RAM modules in place on each end of
the ram-socket that hinge in and out.

5. Gently push the tabs towards the motherboard to set them into the open
position.
* Notice the new memory module has an off-center notch near the middle.

6. Line up the off-center notch with the bump in the middle of the socket

7. Press firmly in until the plastic tabs come up and lock into place. You will
hear a distinctive click.

You can research the manufacturer's website to see what RAM modules are already installed on your
system and what computer memory upgrade is available to you. Also, most Vendors will have this
information as well and will let you search by the computer make and model number.

* It is very important to make sure that the
computer memory module is seated
correctly and locked into place. Not doing so
correctly can cause your computer memory
upgrade not to be recognized by the system or
worse can cause a short on the motherboard
which can render the memory socket useless.

8. Close the cover and reconnect all the cables
to the rear of the computer. When you first
boot up, your computer will find the new
memory. The first boot might take a few
seconds longer than normal as windows
makes changes for the new memory but all
boots after that will be normal. If you increase
memory by a lot, boot time could be noticeably
shorter than before the computer memory
upgrade.
Also: If you add a lot of memory, the delay
before boot begins might seem longer as the
BIOS tests all that new memory.

As prices drop you will find it an easy
performance boost to just add a computer
memory upgrade.